Accessibility links

Navigation

Chemistry AS/A2 Level 3 at Chatham & Clarendon Grammar School

Course description

What is the course about?

Chemistry is a vibrant and relevant subject taught though the OCR (A) Specification. This is a unique course with comprehensive coverage of all major chemical concepts with an emphasis on relevance to everyday life. The aim of the course is to introduce
chemistry theory through relevant, context-based units. The result is that new concepts are introduced and reviewed within a framework related to its use and the latest techniques.

For whom is the course suitable?

The course is aimed at interested students who have achieved at least
a level 6 in Chemistry or GCSE Combined: Trilogy (Chemistry Component)
In order to be able to develop their skills, knowledge and understanding of Chemistry, students need to have competence in the appropriate areas of mathematics. It is therefore recommended that students have at least a grade 6 in GCSE
Mathematics.

Choose Chemistry if:

· You intend to pursue a career in a science or a career requiring analytical skills

· You have enjoyed studying chemistry, even if you are not sure of taking it at tertiary level

· You wish to take a science subject to balance the Arts/Humanities choices you have made.

· You have the mathematical skills to cope with the quantative elements

· Those who wish to pursue a career in a science field or a career requiring analytical skills

· Those who enjoyed chemistry at GCSE and wish to explore the subject further

Teaching Methods and Homework commitment:

· Using practical techniques to investigate the behaviour of materials

· Solving problems using mathematical techniques as well as non-mathematical concepts

· Studying the applications of Chemistry, together with their social, environmental and economic consequences.

· Students are expected to work for a minimum of 5 hours per week, outside lesson time. This will involve a wide variety of activities including problem solving, background reading and researching topics.

What could I go on to do at the end of the course?

A-level Chemistry is obviously essential to anyone wishing to study Chemistry at a higher level, but it is also a required A-level for many courses including Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Pharmacy, Forensic Science, Environmental Science and Engineering.
In addition, Chemistry is an ideal subject to take as a fourth AS level for students looking to widen their options prior to university. UCAS handbooks will give further advice.